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STI Assessment

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What is an STI assessment?  An assessment for sexually transmitted infections consists of:

  • a brief sexual history
  • education
  • a physical examination
  • possible laboratory testing

Your clinician will determine with you what tests, if any, are appropriate. Tests may require:

  • a urine sample
  • oral, vagina, penile or rectal swab
  • cervical culture and/or
  • blood draw

STI assessment can include HIV testing, or HIV testing can be done separately and anonymously. See HIV Antibody Testing for more info.

STI assessments have limitations:  It is not possible to test for all STIs. Talk to your clinician about what tests can be performed.

When should I have an STI assessment?  An assessment is recommended if you experience symptoms:

  • unusual discharge
  • painful or burning with urination
  • genital skin changes (rash, sore, blister, growths)
  • pelvic discomfort or pain (women)
  • testicular pain (men).

Note: It's important to see a clinician when symptoms are present. However, a person who has an STI may not experience any symptoms and there are other causes of these symptoms.

An assessment is also recommended if you think you may have been exposed, or may be at risk of exposing others to an STI.

Women who are sexually active are advised to have an annual gynecological exam. Your clinician may also recommend a Pap smear.

Men who are sexually active are advised to have an STI assessment, according to the recommendations above.

How can I get an STI assessment? STI assessments are available by appointment or walk-in, but appointments are recommended. See Appointment or Walk-in. You can request a male or female clinician. Please tell the scheduler that you would like an STI assessment.

How can I get test results? During your visit, your clinician will tell you how to get your test results. STI test results are typically available 2-3 business days after your visit. HIV test results usually take longer.

What about confidentiality?  Your medical records are kept completely confidential and can be released ONLY with your written consent. If you are a UM student (Ann Arbor campus), enrolled for the current semester, an STI assessment will not be billed to your insurance company. However, billing for these visits may occur for those who are not currently enrolled at the time of service.

Suggestions for STI/HIV prevention:

  • No partners (abstaining) or fewer partners means less risk.
  • Decide with your partner about how you will practice safer sex.
  • Ask questions about your partner's sexual history, including STI assessment and HIV Antibody Testing.
  • Avoid mixing alcohol or other drugs with sex because they interfere with decision making.
  • Choose lower risk sexual activities, such as mutual masturbation instead of intercourse.
  • Use a condom (latex or polyurethane) during intercourse. Use a water-based lubricant to reduce the risk of breakage.
  • Use a barrier (condom, latex square, etc.) with oral-genital or oral-anal contact.
  • Wash shared sex toys thoroughly between uses.
  • Minimize damage to tissues during sexual activities by using adequate lubrication and avoiding behaviors that draw blood.

Resources for sexual health information:

At University Health Service: